A Fractional CMO is a senior marketing leader you “plug in” for a set number of hours, days or months instead of the investment and risk of hiring full-time. You get C-level strategy, channel oversight and team coaching—just at a fraction of the salary, equity and overhead. It’s ideal for startups that need immediate and seasoned growth direction but aren’t yet ready to shoulder the $200 k–$300 k-plus salary and time commitment of a full-time executive.